Padres Outfield by Milton Bradley

by jbox on Jun 28, 2007 8:26 PM PDT in News

Thanks to Gaslamp Baller osidepadre for bringing this to our attention.

SignOnSanDiego: Padres acquire outfielder Milton Bradley:

Bradley, a Los Angeles native, attended Long Beach Poly, the same high school that produced Tony Gwynn.

Good enough for me. As long as he has some connection to Tony, then we cool.

Update [2007-6-28 23:46:8 by jbox]:

Here's some discussion on Bradley over at Athletics Nation, if you're interested:

Update [2007-6-29 6:59:51 by Dex]: from the comments: As I said somewhere else in the comments. Bradley hit two of the absolute biggest bombs I've ever seen in Petco Park so his big plus for me is that he has the potential to be a Petco Power Hitter. The other two guys that stick out in my mind for having absolute bombs at Petco are Khalil Greene and Miguel Cabrera. We know the differences in consistency between those two. I'm guessing Bradley will lean towards the Khalil side of things, but we all love Khalil so I can live with that.

Big minus is playing time. Will he be able to stick it out? With the types of platoons that we've been running, it might not be that big of an issue as he's an improvement over Sledge if he gets Sledge-like playing time. I also trust his defense more. It would be nice to actually see some outfield assists and I think Bradley might be able to deliver that.

Biggest Meh for me: "Not a clubhouse guy". Is he actively being investigated for steroids? Did he threaten to kill his baby mama? Is he making it rain in strip clubs? Did he try to steal a teammate's glove to sell on eBay?

If the answer is no, then I'm sure he'll play nice with the rest of the clubhouse. If he doesn't play nice, then we have enough veterans (and a guy he knows in DePodesta telling him how it is) to make sure he plays professional.

Good acquisition pending review.

Update [2007-6-29 15:39:54 by Dex]: Drama points out that it's now official: We get Milton Bradley and cash while the A's get Andrew Brown. Cash is good, but I kinda like gift cards because then you don't feel guilty about buying video games with the money.

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Comments

I like it

Sounds like we didn't give up much to get him, and there's plenty of upside.

Geoff
Ducksnorts 2007 Baseball Annual

by Geoff on Jun 28, 2007 8:41 PM PDT reply actions

If Paul DePodesta likes it

I like it.

"At the end, excitement maintained its hysteria." - Jerry Coleman

by TheGrandHatching on Jun 28, 2007 8:53 PM PDT reply actions

but

Billy Beane likes it also. Will the student become the teacher or is the teacher taking the student to school?

by jbox on Jun 28, 2007 8:59 PM PDT up reply actions

Monopoly Boy

History of bad attitute...I'm no so sure.

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by Sam (sdsuaztec4) on Jun 28, 2007 8:55 PM PDT reply actions

Say it ain't so, jbox

say it ain't so. This guy is a cancer to any ballclub he joins. So much for team chemistry.

Padres fan since '76

by kev on Jun 28, 2007 9:58 PM PDT up reply actions

You know who else

had a Bad Attitude?

B.A. Baracus, Mr. T. from the A-Team.

I'm not sure what my point is here.

by jbox on Jun 28, 2007 10:05 PM PDT up reply actions

So you're suggesting

that any time that he's not on the field we slip a few roofies in his milk to knock him out?? Brilliant!!

by jburtrum1 on Jun 28, 2007 10:10 PM PDT up reply actions

Similarly ....

I know what your point is: despite being thought of as mercenaries, the A-Team always acted on the side of the good guys and helped the oppressed and B.A. Baracus, though not a clubhouse guy, helped the A-Team win. Similarly ....

by Enzo Hernandez on Jun 29, 2007 11:43 AM PDT up reply actions

Thank you

Enzo, that's exactly what I meant.

by jbox on Jun 29, 2007 4:19 PM PDT up reply actions

At least we got him for

next to nothing. I think it was a "Thanks for Cust" type deal. Worth the trial as long as his attitude stays positive. Black strikes me as a guy that doesn't take any crap so hopefully it will work!

by jburtrum1 on Jun 28, 2007 9:10 PM PDT reply actions

It was only for a minor league pitcher...

...so it's not that bad. I'm just still skeptical about Bradley's attitude and ability to be productive.

Also, why won't he arrive until Sunday? We need him to play against his former team!

by JollyWaffle on Jun 28, 2007 9:11 PM PDT reply actions

We traded him for the pitcher

thrown in on the Barfield/Kouz deal. Barfield for Kouz and Bradley. This must of been what they were planning all along.

by planetjeffy on Jun 28, 2007 9:14 PM PDT reply actions

Andrew Brown

Padres.com

Brown was the player to be named in the 2004 trade that sent Milton Bradley to the Dodgers. The Indians turned him into a reliever in the Minor Leagues, and he went 5-4 with five saves and a 2.60 ERA in 39 appearances for the Bisons.

With the Indians, he was 0-0 in nine games with a 3.60 ERA, walking eight and striking out seven in 10 innings. He held batters to a .171 average.

"I had a feeling, because of the situation, with the Indians having a lot of young arms and me being out of options, that something might happen," Brown said. "I'm pretty pumped up. [San Diego is] a good organization and city. It's a nice opportunity for me."

by jbox on Jun 28, 2007 9:32 PM PDT up reply actions

Oakland A blog comments..

my favorites were "Could we send Piazza back too?" and "Could he (Beene) trade Bocachica for himself?"...."only if he names him for himself later...."

by planetjeffy on Jun 28, 2007 9:20 PM PDT reply actions

YES!!!

Oh...nevermind...sigh...I had my one year. I'm good.

Christina

by Christina on Jun 29, 2007 8:29 AM PDT up reply actions

Reservations...

So now we got Barrett and Bradley, both hot-heads with prior issues. Both provide some pop, and a bump in BA. But are we setting ourselves up for a explosion down the road?

Bradley is NOT the big cat we were looking for.

[This Space For Rent]

by ShaneHale on Jun 28, 2007 10:05 PM PDT reply actions

I predict

a Barrett vs Bradley rumble before season's end...

M Giles fractures his hand trying to break it up, and B Giles fractures his penis rushing out from the showers to join the fun. CY takes a swing at Bradley but punches a hole right through Wells' stomach. Peavy tries to hold back Barrett, but Khalil drops a Vulcan nerve pinch on him.

The battle continues for hours until one GLB founder, Dex, pushes the panic button, and the entire team is disintegrated into ashes.

Padres fan since '76

by kev on Jun 28, 2007 10:20 PM PDT up reply actions

trouble makers

i really don't think that barrett is a trouble maker. All i've heard is that he is a really good guy. He got into some tussles with the biggest assholes in baseball, so maybe he has a short fuse, but hes not an asshole. Bradley on the other hand, in a known asshole, throwing things at fans and the like. so i dunno about him. but he hasn't had any problems with the As, and he has a pretty good bat and decent speed. if he can keep his act together and put up decent numbers i'd be really happy

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by Sam (sdsuaztec4) on Jun 28, 2007 10:39 PM PDT up reply actions

According to Deivi Cruz,

Barrett is a nice guy & we shouldn't believe what ESPN says about him. If that means anything.

by Deb on Jun 29, 2007 6:50 AM PDT up reply actions

I didn't realize

that he's already been on the DL 3 times this season. Jeez.

by jbox on Jun 28, 2007 10:11 PM PDT reply actions

2 of the 3 trips to the DL

were moves by Beene to juggle his overflowing roster. They have been trying to deal Bradley for a while. However, I don't know how Milty can fail a physical when the A's tried to deal him to KC, but a week later, he is healthy enough to start for us on Sunday. Depodesta is his biggest supporter. Hopefully he will have a positive effect on this talented yet troubled player.

by planetjeffy on Jun 28, 2007 11:09 PM PDT up reply actions

Doctor Report said...

it was royalatitis...

[This Space For Rent]

by ShaneHale on Jun 29, 2007 12:32 AM PDT up reply actions

I'm Holding My Applause....

....but this could be a positive thing for the Padres. I just hope he isn't the "clubhouse cancer" he is purported to be. It does make me feel a little better knowing that the most publicized teammate feud of his was with Jeff Kent. Kent's an a**hole supreme. I don't blame Uncle Milty there at all.

On the other hand, with him and newbie Michael "I Clocked A.J. Pierzynski in the Face" Barrett on the same team, we could see some unwanted craziness ensue. I pray Milty comes in, whacks the crap out of the ball, shows off some sparkling defensive plays, and keeps his mouth shut on the field and in the clubhouse.

by Mr Meadows on Jun 28, 2007 10:44 PM PDT reply actions

athletes nation

it seems everyone over there is wishing him good luck so It seems that he was at least liked in Oakland for the 19 games he played. if he stays healthy, this could be a good pickup.

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by Sam (sdsuaztec4) on Jun 28, 2007 10:44 PM PDT reply actions

i kinda like this move...

i used to hate Bradley and laugh at all the messes he got himself into...but i actually am excited to have him on our team. one thing i remember from watching the dodgers is that Bradley, like Barrett brought so much competitiveness and passion to the game. i remember seeing him get so pumped on the bench when a teammate hit a homer and him always giving his all out on the field. he is a gamer and i like that in LF.

i remember reading an ESPN magazine article on milton a few years ago when he was on the dodgers, and it actually impressed me. he is a really smart bright guy who knows his stuff, despite his onfield temper and anger problems. i remember he was taking anger management classes and working on his anger, hopefuly in our peaceful clubhouse he can fuel the offense and give us some energy and competitiveness.

with him barrett and young and peavy i dont think any team would want to pick a fight with us

threepeat?(never thought id be able to say that about the padres!)

by Peavyforprez08 on Jun 28, 2007 10:53 PM PDT reply actions

leadoff man

Bradley has decent speed and is a contact hitter. M. Giles isn't the prototypical leader hitter and it is a known fact he doesn't prefer to bat leadoff. Anyone think Bradley might take over at leadoff?

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by Sam (sdsuaztec4) on Jun 28, 2007 10:58 PM PDT reply actions

good point

That might solve the problem of our awkward top of the order situation lately. They may try it out, but I'm just curious if that's the type of responsibility that was being offered when they made the deal.

by Dex on Jun 29, 2007 4:03 AM PDT up reply actions

It's simple as this...

The Risk/Benefit ratio makes this deal a no brainer. The Pads made a move that makes them a better team.

I couldn't stand this guy when he played for LA, I'm looking forward to him returning the favor to Dodger fan.

by Peanuts and Beer on Jun 28, 2007 11:10 PM PDT reply actions

He has been healed!!!!

Towers pulls off another miracle. What a difference a week makes.

by planetjeffy on Jun 28, 2007 11:48 PM PDT reply actions

If somebody tried to send me to KC...

I think I'd come up lame too.

I'm just kidding, RoyalsFan.

by Dex on Jun 29, 2007 4:04 AM PDT up reply actions

Remember May?

We probably owe you one for the November 8, 2004 trade of Darrell May and Ryan Bukvich to you guys for Terrence Long, Dennis Tankersley, and cash. May was a cancer in the clubhouse in KC.

BTW, did you know that Long is one of only three players to be on teams that won at least 19 in a row & lost at least 19 in a row? (Oakland won 20 in a row in 2002, KC lost 19 in a row in 2005)

by RoyalsFan on Jun 29, 2007 6:57 PM PDT up reply actions

Who are the other two?

"I try not to get overly excited... But I am pleased with it..."

by TheThirdGonzalez on Jun 29, 2007 9:44 PM PDT up reply actions

Been a while since I researched it

Off the top of my head, Dave Nelson was an infielder on the 1972 Rangers who lost 15 in a row, and a member of the 1977 Royals who won 16 in a row. (Yes, the Royals had a dominant team at one time.)

Long avoided becoming the first player since 1900 to be on teams that won and lost 20 consecutive games. Maybe I'll do more research on it when I have time.

by RoyalsFan on Jun 29, 2007 10:26 PM PDT up reply actions

More on this thread

Since we Royals fans haven't had anything to cheer about for 22 years, I looked back at that 16-game winning streak from 1977. The Royals lost their next game, but then won another 8 in a row, meaning they won 24 out of 25 games in one stretch from August 31, 1977 through September 25, 1977.

And then John Mayberry cost us a World Series appearance and championship.

by RoyalsFan on Jul 2, 2007 7:29 PM PDT up reply actions

I'm not sure how to feel

I'm both an A's fan and a Padres fan (in training). The Pads are getting one hell of a (potential) hitter. He basically carried Oakland in the playoffs, but then has been hurt for most of this year. Then again, I guess we're just used to injuries in Oakland. What starts out as "He'll be out for a couple days" becomes a week becomes a 15-day DL trip becomes a funeral (Exhibit A: Rich Harden). We loved him, but it was kind of irritating never being able to really rely on him. And he must've done something extreme to earn a DFA.

All in all I'm excited that SD got Bradley, because he can be a sensational player when healthy and sane. I wish him well and I can't wait to go see him play at Petco.

Stephen Colbert: "Kids who look up to athletes become athletes themselves."
The Word: Or bitter sports journalists.

by JLaff on Jun 29, 2007 12:28 AM PDT reply actions

my thoughts

As I said somewhere else in the comments. Bradley hit two of the absolute biggest bombs I've ever seen in Petco Park so his big plus for me is that he has the potential to be a Petco Power Hitter. The other two guys that stick out in my mind for having absolute bombs at Petco are Khalil Greene and Miguel Cabrera. We know the differences in consistency between those two. I'm guessing Bradley will lean towards the Khalil side of things, but we all love Khalil so I can live with that.

Big minus is playing time. Will he be able to stick it out? With the types of platoons that we've been running, it might not be that big of an issue as he's an improvement over Sledge if he gets Sledge-like playing time. I also trust his defense more. It would be nice to actually see some outfield assists and I think Bradley might be able to deliver that.

Biggest Meh for me: "Not a clubhouse guy". Is he actively being investigated for steroids? Did he threaten to kill his baby mama? Is he making it rain in strip clubs? Did he try to steal a teammate's glove to sell on eBay?

If the answer is no, then I'm sure he'll play nice with the rest of the clubhouse. If he doesn't play nice, then we have enough veterans (and a guy he knows in DePodesta telling him how it is) to make sure he plays professional.

Good acquisition pending review.

by Dex on Jun 29, 2007 4:01 AM PDT reply actions

Attitude

I am not too worried about the attitude problems. And Yes Dex, he actually did have some problems with this pregnant wife a couple years back. She filed a few (three?)domestic violence chargers. I don't know if anything came of it, or if they were even legit, but they were there. Even so, I agree that he will have a hard time causing trouble in the Padres' clubhouse. As far as throwing things at fans, I think if you throw shit at a baseball player, he should be able to go into the stands and pound you. Heckle him all you want, it's not cool to throw stuff at him.

From a pure baseball point of view, I think this was a great trade. We give up basically nothing, and there is a pretty good upside to him. He is not the big power bat, but with him out there we basically have a team where every position is capable of hittin 20 HR. Even though he is not familiar with Petco's right field, he is a better RF than Giles, with a better arm. We can move giles back to left. By default it will improve our bench. Instead of being our full time starters, Branyan and Cruz will be nice additions coming off the bench.

If I was in charge, I still would like to see Brian Giles in the leadoff spot, but I don't think they will do that. I think Bradley could do it, but I would rather see him hitting second. Whatever they decide to do, it gives us flexibility.

by osbug on Jun 29, 2007 6:07 AM PDT up reply actions

Bradley's issues

Let's see if we can live with them. UT describes them. One that I absolutely cannot live with:

March 31, 2004: Bradley fails to run hard on a popup that falls for a single during an exhibition and is pulled from the game by Cleveland manager Eric Wedge. The Indians trade him to the Dodgers four days later.

"Milton Bradley, you sonuvabitch. You run for the ball. Exhibition? You still run. Oh, you don't think so? Well let's see what you think when I exhibition your punkass to LA."

by Dex on Jun 29, 2007 6:28 AM PDT up reply actions

NOBODY

deserves to get sent to LA for not running for a flyball in an exhibition game. KC, Tampa, Toronto sure, but Los Angeles? That is just cruel. No wonder he was so pissed off during his tenure there.

by osbug on Jun 29, 2007 6:31 AM PDT up reply actions

Somebody has to do it

The Padres' acquisition of Milton Bradley could spell TroubleTM in CandylandTM. He has been a source of AggravationTM everywhere he has played. He's no Barrel of MonkeysTM. If this clubhouse CootieTM doesn't get a ClueTM, the S.S. Padres could turn into a BattleshipTM.

by Judge19 on Jun 29, 2007 6:56 AM PDT reply actions

+1

by Dex on Jun 29, 2007 8:04 AM PDT up reply actions

That is fantastic

Killed me.

by Winfield's Ghost on Jun 29, 2007 8:23 AM PDT up reply actions

Clubhouse cancer - worst acquisition ever.

This might be the worst decision we've ever made - not because they're not looking at numbers, but because thats all they're looking at. Baseball is about more than just numbers, it's about getting good guys together to represent the city you live in - Milton Bradley is a pox upon the teams he's played with.

I'm really worried that the one or two pitches he runs into every now and then, like Khalil does when nobody expects it, will be outweighed by his negative affect on team morale, clubhouse atmosphere and team chemistry.

Oiiii, this could end so badly. I hope it doesn't, but there isn't much in milton bradley's career that says he's a guy worth cheering for.

by Brad @ Gaslamp Ball on Jun 29, 2007 7:53 AM PDT reply actions

But

has he ever had a detrimental effect on a teams performance?

by osbug on Jun 29, 2007 8:08 AM PDT up reply actions

Possibly?

Bradley, who agreed to a one-year, $4 million deal with Oakland in the offseason, has always been known as much for his volatile behavior as his baseball skills. In 2005, he accused Dodgers teammate Jeff Kent of a lack of leadership and an inability to deal with black players.

Bradley was also suspended for the final five games of the 2004 season when he slammed a plastic bottle at the feet of a fan in the box seats in the right field corner at Dodger Stadium after someone threw it on the field. Nobody was injured.

Bradley had two run-ins with police during traffic stops in Ohio, one that landed him a three-day stay in jail and another that nearly sent him back for a second visit. When he was with the Dodgers, police responded three times to Bradley's home on domestic violence calls, but he wasn't arrested or charged.

---

Either way, I have a hard time rooting for a ball player who isn't "a good guy" as well.

by Brad @ Gaslamp Ball on Jun 29, 2007 8:20 AM PDT up reply actions

jeez....

How could anyone not get along with Jeff Kent?

by Drama on Jun 29, 2007 8:26 AM PDT up reply actions

You're right, Kents an asshole...

But that doesn't change that this is just a bad seed. When Adrian Gonzalez gets a hit, I can cheer for him knowing that he's a good, hard-working, friendly guy. He grew up down here, he's active in his old high school community, etc...

How am I supposed to cheer for a guy who beats his wife when he's not in prison?

by Brad @ Gaslamp Ball on Jun 29, 2007 8:32 AM PDT up reply actions

Standing ovation for KT

We should thank the baseball gods for every single day that the general managers office of the San Diego Padres is occupied by Kevin Towers. In a matter of eight days KT made two trades that improved our ballclub. In doing so, he gave up very little and barely made a dent in our payroll.

I'm so tired of hearing all the worry about whether or not we're bringing in a clubhouse cancer. Does anyone in here really believe Trevor Hoffman, Greg Maddux, David Wells, Brian Giles, Marcus Giles or anyone else in that locker room is going to let MILTON BRADLEY destroy clubhouse chemistry?? Are you kidding me?

When KT talked to Mad Dog about the possibility of trading for Michael Barrett, he asked Maddux "So, you have no worry about hurting clubhouse chemistry?" Maddux told him there wasn't a player out there that could disturb this particular clubhouse.

KT isn't worried. The players aren't worried. DePodesta has vouched for him. Another good acquistion for us.

Nice job, KT. Never leave us....please?

by Drama on Jun 29, 2007 8:00 AM PDT reply actions

Oh man

I think I just dry heaved.

Padres fan since '76

by kev on Jun 29, 2007 8:05 AM PDT up reply actions

kev

Give me ONE reason why we shouldn't trust KT on this.

by Drama on Jun 29, 2007 8:10 AM PDT up reply actions

I'll give you several reasons

why I have a bad feeling about this move

We're paying the $2mil still owed to Bradley (way too much)
Padres are not asking for a physcial for the trade to finalize (we'll be lucky if he gets another 50 ABs before the season's over)
The A's got next to nothing in the trade (if something is too good to be true, then it probably is)

Padres fan since '76

by kev on Jun 29, 2007 8:37 AM PDT up reply actions

Too soon

I think it is too soon to judge some of that.

That is pretty cheap for a defensive and offensive upgrade.
Are you sure they are not getting a physical? Have the Padres even made an official announcement?
The A's got rid of a guy that was already DFA, dumped payroll, and picked up a player which may or may not help.

by osbug on Jun 29, 2007 8:46 AM PDT up reply actions

From the UT

"Last week the A's and Kansas City Royals reportedly agreed on a trade involving Bradley, but the deal was voided, apparently because Bradley wasn't recovered from an injury. The Padres aren't requiring a physical exam to make the trade."

Padres fan since '76

by kev on Jun 29, 2007 8:50 AM PDT up reply actions

Also

can you please explain to me how it is a "defensive and offensive upgrade" when something can't play due to injury?

Padres fan since '76

by kev on Jun 29, 2007 8:52 AM PDT up reply actions

if he plays a third of the time

That's what we've been expecting from the rest of our left fielders so then it's just a skills comparison.

by Dex on Jun 29, 2007 8:53 AM PDT up reply actions

Fair point but it still feels like...

...we're getting damaged goods here.

He's not good enough for Kansas City but he's good enough for the Padres?

C'mon, tell me that doesn't make you at least chuckle a little bit.

by Brad @ Gaslamp Ball on Jun 29, 2007 8:58 AM PDT up reply actions

It's true

But I like to look at it as him being too good to allow himself to get to KC. Didn't he report his own injury during this "physical" that he didn't pass?

by Dex on Jun 29, 2007 9:02 AM PDT up reply actions

KC

has no reason to pick up a guy who's contract expires at the end of the season. They have nothing to gain even if he has a great rest of the season. I don't know why they wanted him anyway. Maybe they felt they had a shot at resigning him and he let them know otherwise. Hasn't he been on teams that have been to the playoffs three years in a row now? Maybe he isn't as bad for the clubhouse as people want to believe.

by osbug on Jun 29, 2007 9:04 AM PDT up reply actions

Apparently

you know way more about the extent of his injuries than I do.

by osbug on Jun 29, 2007 8:57 AM PDT up reply actions

Good points - no physical!?

Oakland nearly had a deal complete with Kansas City just a week ago, but Kansas City backed out at the last minute due to Bradley's health.

Turns out that relying on beating your wife in the off season to stay in shape maybe isn't the best approach?

by Brad @ Gaslamp Ball on Jun 29, 2007 8:47 AM PDT up reply actions

From what I understand

KC backed out because Bradley told them he had an oblique strain. Did they even give him a physical?

Has he ever actually beat his wife? There were no charges ever brought against him.

by osbug on Jun 29, 2007 8:49 AM PDT up reply actions

3 police visits for domestic disturbence...

...and you're correct, no charges or arrests. Still though, line up the rest of his illustrious career, including altercations with fans and jailtime, and it doesn't exactly stretch the imagination to think that the guy isn't exactly a stand up guy.

I'm not saying he's not an upgrade offensively and maybe even defensively if he's healthy, but with the questions about his health (like KC not approving of his health a week ago) and the fact that he just seems like a real bad guy...

...it makes me wonder what else we give up if he puts on the Padre uniform.

by Brad @ Gaslamp Ball on Jun 29, 2007 9:02 AM PDT up reply actions

why don't we

As with the Barrett trade, how about we give the guy a chance to be a good guy instead of writing him off before he gets here? This move costs the Padres next to nothing. He makes 2/5ths of what Giles makes despite being a better fielder and arguably a better hitter at this point in Giles's career. If it doesn't work out, we're out $2mil and a minor league reliever.

"Winfield's head hits the wall! It's rolling toward second base!" - Jerry Coleman

by metalsupplier on Jun 29, 2007 3:43 PM PDT up reply actions

Excellent points

a) $2mil! I had no idea!

b) wtf!

c) yeah, like the Cust trade, right!

by ABY on Jun 29, 2007 9:35 AM PDT up reply actions

trade

This trade is still not "official"...so saying the Padres are picking up the remainder of his contract or that they are not asking for a physical is based solely on rumor and speculation. Any trade involving a team picking up $1 million dollars (or more) of a departing players contract has to be reviewed by the Commissioner's office, which takes time. That could very well be the reason for the delay. Or maybe he's getting a physical...that could be the reason for the delay. KT and Billy Beane have a pretty close relationship and I strongly doubt that Beane would jeopardize that by sending the Padres a player with a serious injury.

Also, calling Andrew Brown "next to nothing" is not a fair assessment. In 35 and 2/3 innings in Triple A he had an ERA of 2.78 with 43 strikeouts. He has a fastball that hits 99mph.

by Drama on Jun 29, 2007 9:53 AM PDT up reply actions

Are we

even sure it is Brown?

by osbug on Jun 29, 2007 9:57 AM PDT up reply actions

excellent point

by Drama on Jun 29, 2007 10:05 AM PDT up reply actions

True... but !

You're right - I'm probably not giving enough credit to the other classy guys on our team, but you know what they say, 'it only takes one bad seed...'

by Brad @ Gaslamp Ball on Jun 29, 2007 8:06 AM PDT up reply actions

Ken Rosenthal

Good article from Ken Rosenthal at FOX.

by Drama on Jun 29, 2007 8:07 AM PDT up reply actions

Catching up

I am leaning 'good move' on this one. I read all the comments and see may valid points, but I htink the one that sticks with me is the osbug keeps pointing out - no way anyone could get away with being a bitch in that clubhouse. We have so many veteran, strong, quality personalities in there. And quite honestly, I would NEVER challenge a Trevor stare down. AND - given this guy's edge - you just KNOW he would love nothing more than to help take down the Dodgers. For that alone - I think he will bring a good vibe to the clubhouse.

I'm with Drama on the kudos for KT as well. Guy is genius. I am sure all the other general managers quake when he calls :->

Christina

by Christina on Jun 29, 2007 8:35 AM PDT reply actions

Just like the offseason

He has upgraded our roster while spending almost nothing.

by osbug on Jun 29, 2007 8:47 AM PDT up reply actions

We should applaud KT

for his fiscal responsibility. Let's not forget to thank Mr. Moores for agreeing to pay another $2mil for upgrading our roster.

Padres fan since '76

by kev on Jun 29, 2007 9:01 AM PDT up reply actions

And

for not giving away parts of what is already a good team.

by osbug on Jun 29, 2007 10:00 AM PDT up reply actions

The vets

I agree with Christina that there are way too many players known as "clubhouse guys" on this team. They should be able to keep Milton's anger management problems in check. However, another player that he had problem with in LA was LoDuca, who is universally known as a good guy, albeit, a very emotional player. Although it appears that Milton has mellowed past couple of seasons, he will bring something to this team: intensity. All players are by nature competitors, but Milton wears it on his sleeve, which is something the Padres have lacked (outside of Jake), especially during September/October.

by Pants on Jun 29, 2007 9:24 AM PDT up reply actions

russ

I don't know who the other person is that voted No in the poll (Brad?) but I think this is super lame. We need to avoid assholes. That's why there's a baseball team in Los Angeles, after all.

by Russ @ Gaslamp Ball on Jun 29, 2007 8:37 AM PDT reply actions

That was...

supposed to be title "russ says..." but there's actually TWO teams in LA for people who can't deal with teamwork

by Russ @ Gaslamp Ball on Jun 29, 2007 8:39 AM PDT up reply actions

take it easy on my Angels

Or Tim Salmon will bite your head off

by RBS on Jun 29, 2007 10:24 AM PDT up reply actions

I know we should never doubt KT

And I'm not gonna touch the potential chemistry or character issues, because I'm sure it's been discussed by people with far more insight than us, and more importantly because it's a done deal.

What I'm concerned about is that this and the Barrett deal feel like moves that are intended to give us just a little bump to get into the playoffs, and which look good enough because it doesn't look like any division rivals are gonna make big moves, either.

But that's all it feels like. Just trying to get us into the playoffs and hope that our lights-out pitching staff is enough to get us through the playoffs, a strategy which has met with limited success the past few years. Unicorn willing, these moves will be enough to get us in, but man, such heavy reliance on pitching isn't good for my stress level.

by Boy Howdy on Jun 29, 2007 9:04 AM PDT reply actions

You have to consider

that trades take place between two teams. We don't know that Towers hasn't been out there discussing trades for big name guys, but had no luck. Yeah, everybody would like to get someone like Dunn or Dye or Ichiro or whatever. But if their teams don't want to move them or we don't have anything they want, it won't happen. What Towers has done is upgrade our already good team at basically zero cost. Our offense is better than most people give it credit for, and a few small upgrades might be all it takes. Besides, who knows what else is coming.

by osbug on Jun 29, 2007 9:10 AM PDT up reply actions

Random aside:

I'd just like you to expound on your comment:

"Our offense is better than most people give it credit for."

I'm as big a Padres fan as anybody, but I find it hard to argue with the following:

29th / 30: Team Batting average
27th / 30: Team OBP
29th / 30: Total Hits by Team
17th / 30: Team Home Runs: (surprisingly high!)
25th / 30: Team RBI
21st / 30: Team SLG
2nd / 30: Team Strike Outs (that is, second MOST)
14th / 30: Team Extra Base Hits

I promise, I'm not trying to be an asshole or be snide or sarcastic - I'm of the opinion that our offense is pretty poor, and that opinion is well supported by the above evidence.

If you think the above evidence isn't really that telling, or you've got other evidence (other stats perhaps, maybe BA w/RISP?) that shows the contrary, I'd love to see it.

by Brad @ Gaslamp Ball on Jun 29, 2007 9:32 AM PDT up reply actions

Petco

explains a lot of that. If you look how well they bat at home compared to their opponents, and look at their road splits, you get a better idea of what they are like. I don't have the numbers in front of me, but last season, after adjustments our team was actually pretty close to the Mets.

by osbug on Jun 29, 2007 9:48 AM PDT up reply actions

We are a better road team offensively

You're right, offensively we're a better road team. I'm bored today, so here are the numbers:

20/30 road.ba
18/30 road.obp
16/30 road.h
15/30 road.hr
12/30 road.rbi
13/30 road.slg
6/30 road.so (6th most)
2/30 road.xbh

I'm shocked that we've got the 2nd most extra base hits on the road. Thats positive!

Still though, offensively we're middle of the pack on the road, and nearly the worst at home.

Luckily, we've got the best pitching in the game - make no mistake, thats what's keeping us in the game right now.

by Brad @ Gaslamp Ball on Jun 29, 2007 9:59 AM PDT up reply actions

To be fair

you are including AL teams in there, which is a totally different offensive environment. We rank pretty good among NL teams. Yes we rank poorly offensively at home, but that is no surprise. The important part is that we are better than our opponents there. It is not an easy park to hit in.

by osbug on Jun 29, 2007 10:04 AM PDT up reply actions

Right in the first few years at home

the argument fell apart because our opponents were certainly hitting the ball hard at Petco...so either our hitting sucked, our pitching sucked, or the other hitters weren't as pysched out about Petco as our boys were who had to hit there for a homestand versus one series.

by bktabinga on Jun 29, 2007 10:14 AM PDT up reply actions

Both valid points

Those are two good points -

I shouldn't have counted the pansy league.
What I'd like to see, and I can't find immediately, is how other teams do at PetCo versus their home stadium.

Then again, our Home ERA is better than our Road ERA, so clearly the Padres aren't the only ones having troubles hitting at Petco.

by Brad @ Gaslamp Ball on Jun 29, 2007 10:21 AM PDT up reply actions

Considering

Our ERA at home is 1.5 Runs under league average and we have given up 63 runs less than league average, I would say overall nobody is hitting very well in PETCO.

by osbug on Jun 29, 2007 10:30 AM PDT up reply actions

If you're REALLY bored

can you come up with what the stats are for visitors playing at Petco?

by Pants on Jun 29, 2007 10:30 AM PDT up reply actions

Do you mean

a team breakdown or overall?

by osbug on Jun 29, 2007 10:33 AM PDT up reply actions

Here is the Padres Opponents numbers in Petco

.230/.287/.318. Ouch. That is a meager .604 OPS. We have only given up 15 HRs in Petco, 419 Total Bases, and a 1.10 WHIP.

by osbug on Jun 29, 2007 10:38 AM PDT up reply actions

Team EqA

.2004 - .270
.2005 - .264
.2006 - .265
.2007 so far - .260

League Average EqA is .260, and is meant to be on a similar scale as batting average. So over the last couple years the Padres have been above average offensively. I am really surprised how well they rated in 2004. Then again, they had a pretty good year that year. The Yankees were top of the league that year with a .276. Last year the Mets were .269, so we weren't too far behind them C. This year we are sitting at league average. considering we have been playing over a month without our starting right fielder, and with Greene and Cameron off to their predictably poor starts, I only see us getting better from here.

EqA - A measure of total offensive value per out, with corrections for league offensive level, home park, and team pitching.

by osbug on Jun 29, 2007 11:23 AM PDT up reply actions

limited success?

I know what you're saying, but still. We made the playoffs twice. As much as we hate to admit it, that's all you can really ask for and try to get on a run at the right time (like the Cards last year).

Show me the guy who thinks they can guarantee a World Series by simply adding "key" personnel and you'd be showing me a picture of George Steinbrenner.

What current Yankees position player wouldn't be an upgrade to our roster?

by Dex on Jun 29, 2007 9:11 AM PDT up reply actions

The thing is

this team is already better than last years. If I remember correctly, we were favored over the Cardinals. So were the Mets. So was pretty much everyone. They got hot at the perfect time, and we got cold at the perfectly wrong time. Our offense was pretty good last year, just like this year. It wasn't just our offense that let us down in the playoffs, but our pitching and defense as well.

by osbug on Jun 29, 2007 9:15 AM PDT up reply actions

Yeah, I meant just in the playoffs

I know we're spoiled. The top brass has made some incredible moves, and we're fielding a damn amazing team for a fraction of what other teams play.

It's also true that the free agent market was insane this past offseason, and that any trades during this season would have had a similar premium, and are limited to players on teams that are pretty much out of contention.

I know we can't guarantee a World Series by spending money, and I know that any playoff team that gets hot going into the playoffs can win it I also know that our offense is better than it looks, having played half the games in Petco. But last year as much as the Cards got hot going into the playoffs, our bats got cold, and I'd feel better if we'd made a bigger move to try to get some offense that'll make that less likely to happen again.

I know we can't guarantee anything, but it's the area that's most in need of an upgrade, and we didn't do a whole lot to address it.

by Boy Howdy on Jun 29, 2007 11:49 AM PDT up reply actions

And to clarify

It's not that I'm pessimistic or critical of the organization, just that it makes me nervous.

by Boy Howdy on Jun 29, 2007 11:53 AM PDT up reply actions

Great move...

get over the attitude. He is ours now. He will be our version of the pit bull when other teams come to town.

He is a Padres and the veteran leadership will make sure he knows he is now part of a TEAM.

Besides...isn't it funny that both our new clubhouse cancers have had issues with other known jerks.

Besides...the moment he becomes a cancer...I guarantee this...he is dropped or sent to AAA, no matter what the hell is salary is.

by bktabinga on Jun 29, 2007 9:04 AM PDT reply actions

IF

he is/stays healthy.

by ABY on Jun 29, 2007 9:38 AM PDT up reply actions

nothing that a little Giles massage

can't fix.

by bktabinga on Jun 29, 2007 9:52 AM PDT up reply actions

bradley

As one of the few people here who actually lives in Oakland and has much experience with Bradley on a day-to-day basis, I am pretty thrilled about this move.

Bradley was outstanding for the A's in the playoffs last year, and was the heart of the team in general last year. When he was in LA, he was the team's nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award for public service. He plays with fire, and he is a terrific defender and solid hitter. And he hates Jeff Kent more than even I do!

And oh yeah, he's a hotheaded guy who wears out his welcome. Well, we have him for 4 months. After that, he's a free agent. You think he's not going to be on his best behavior?

Depending on who the minor league pitcher is, this is a great deal. I would rather have Milton Bradley patrolling the outfield than Branyan, Sledge, or even Jack Cust.

"Winfield's head hits the wall! It's rolling toward second base!" - Jerry Coleman

by metalsupplier on Jun 29, 2007 9:51 AM PDT reply actions

BK Nailed the Bottom Line

<<isn't it funny that both our new clubhouse cancers have had issues with other known jerks.>>

<<the moment he becomes a cancer...I guarantee this...he is dropped or sent to AAA, no matter what the hell is salary is.>>

Both true. So while in the end I would have preferred Ichiro, I think I like this deal better than if we'd gotten Adam Dunn.

Milty is a Padre now. I'm rooting for him. Now let's go on and take the NL West!

by Mr Meadows on Jun 29, 2007 9:59 AM PDT reply actions

Bradley is good

I am #1 a reds fan and padres fan 2, and I really wanted the reds to pick him up (especially if the plan is to get rid of dunn). Anyway the bengals need to lose their monopoly on interesting "charachters". hehe.

So as a Pad's fan, I like the move! He really is a good ballplayer, screw the clubhouse, it has been proven that winning=chemistry and losing=turmoil. Do you think Barret would be a Padre right now if the Cubs were in 1st place? Hell no!

by TheDude @ Gaslamp Ball on Jun 29, 2007 10:00 AM PDT reply actions

winning cures all ailments

including chickenpox of the personality

by bktabinga on Jun 29, 2007 10:15 AM PDT up reply actions

Turnaround

Every now and then I get a little bit lonely and you're never coming around...A tear-jerker on being traded and another positive step in achieving equal opportunities for female sports writers everywhere.

"At the end, excitement maintained its hysteria." - Jerry Coleman

by TheGrandHatching on Jun 29, 2007 12:27 PM PDT reply actions

According to ESPN

We DFAd Sean Thompson to make room for Bradley...nice.

by osbug on Jun 29, 2007 12:49 PM PDT reply actions

Editor at lunch

You say "left-handed pitcher Sean Thompson"...I say "right handed pitcher Mike Thompson"...whatever.

by Drama on Jun 29, 2007 1:03 PM PDT up reply actions

I'm a dumbass....

ESPN was right on this one. Sean Thompson was designated for assignment to make room for Bradley on the 40 man roster. As for getting him onto the 25-man roster...they'll obviously have to drop an outfielder. With Bradley we'll have SIX OF's.

Cam, Giles and Cheo aren't going anywhere. Neither is Bradley since they just traded for him. That leaves Bocachica or Sledge as the odd man out. I think Bocachica has earned that last spot. Besides Giles, he's probably our best right fielder...and he's got some speed. I doubt Sledge has any minor league options...so KT will probably try and move him for another arm.

I guess we'll see in the next couple days.

by Drama on Jun 29, 2007 2:49 PM PDT up reply actions

best right fielder

The best right fielder on the Padres is actually Milton Bradley.

"Winfield's head hits the wall! It's rolling toward second base!" - Jerry Coleman

by metalsupplier on Jun 29, 2007 3:36 PM PDT up reply actions

RF

If you were to play in some random stadium...that may be the case. But Brian knows RF at Petco better than anyone else. Milton has played in a grand total of 11 games at Petco. I get what you're saying, though.

by Drama on Jun 29, 2007 5:01 PM PDT up reply actions

lineup

So is this the lineup if Bradley is ready to play?

Giles
Giles
Gonzalez
Cameron
Bradley
Barrett
Greene
Kouz

Looks pretty good. I like that the Padres are making these moves in June and not July.

by Billy Almon on Jun 29, 2007 12:53 PM PDT reply actions

I approve of that lineup

by Dex on Jun 29, 2007 1:16 PM PDT up reply actions

Just heard from Sandy Alderson!

Driving home just now, I heard an interview on 1090 with Sandy Alderson. He made one spectacularly good point which I think we've all overlooked: he cited the fact that Bradley's got 3 months left on his contract and has an enormous incentive to "play nice" with people, be a nice guy, and really kick some ass on the field. He desperately wants to play major league ball and has been tossed around a bit due to his own issues - basically given that he'll be playing for a contract, the chance of a negative impact is lessened. He also stressed that they're not signing him to a 4 year contract here, he's basically on a 3 month plan.

Anyway, hearing management's side (and being in a good mood cause I left work early) has me a bit more positive on things. I still don't like the guy at all, in fact in some ways he's the Anti-Padre, but we'll see how his bat works for the team.

by Brad @ Gaslamp Ball on Jun 29, 2007 2:35 PM PDT reply actions

Position - LF or RF??

Personally, I like the pickup, and I understand 100% why Sandy Alderson believes he's going to "play nice".

My question is this....

Wouldn't he be a better fit in RF than in LF?

(1) He has more speed than Mr. Padre Hug himself to cover the vast amount of ground out there.
(2) He has a better arm than Naked Boy
(3) Moving Tan Salon Addict to LF would save his knees (and the rest of his older hairless body)

What do you all think? I say Right Field for Milton!!

by jpleeg2 on Jun 29, 2007 2:41 PM PDT reply actions

Actually

Alderson commented that they'd probably platoon both corner outfield spots for a bit. Giles won't be ready to go back full time and Bradley wont' be ready to go play fulltime... so he feels like Bradley will have some opportunities everywhere.

Also, for what it's worth, I'd rather have Giles in RF. HE plays Right Field like it's his lair, and though he might have lost a step, he knows that corner of PEtco better than anybody.

by Brad @ Gaslamp Ball on Jun 29, 2007 2:46 PM PDT up reply actions

Agreed.

Brian knows RF in Petco. We don't need him basically learning a new position while we're in the middle of a pennant race. Milton in LF, Cam in center, Giles in RF...Cheo as the 4th outfielder. Bocachica for pinch-hitting, pinch-running and spot starts, if needed.

by Drama on Jun 29, 2007 2:52 PM PDT up reply actions

I like cheo

will he split L with Bradley then?

by ABY on Jun 29, 2007 3:00 PM PDT up reply actions

Looks like it.

by Drama on Jun 29, 2007 3:19 PM PDT up reply actions

Best Case Scenario

Bradley has something to prove for the final 3 mos of his contract, which puts pressure on Cameron (also, i think, in his final year) and Gilly. Our bench is better for late inning rallies. This takes the pressure off our pitching staff, who returns to April/May form. We win the World Series.

Worst Case Scenario
We lose a minor league pitcher with control issues.

by planetjeffy on Jun 29, 2007 3:17 PM PDT reply actions

Well let's do three of these deals then!

But seriously. I echo those sentiments.

by Dex on Jun 29, 2007 3:18 PM PDT up reply actions

Best post of the day.

by Drama on Jun 29, 2007 3:20 PM PDT up reply actions

I second that!

by sqrunt on Jun 29, 2007 5:17 PM PDT up reply actions

all in favor

say aye

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by Sam (sdsuaztec4) on Jun 29, 2007 5:25 PM PDT up reply actions

TONIGHT'S STARTING LINE-UP

RF Brian Giles
2B Marcus Giles
1B Adrian Gonzalez
CF Mike Cameron
C Michael Barrett
SS Khalil Greene
3B Kevin Kouzmanoff
LF Jose Cruz Jr.
P Chris Young

by Drama on Jun 29, 2007 5:07 PM PDT reply actions

I have been preaching

that Brian Giles needs to be leading off for so long now, it was kind of a shock to see they were finally giving it a go!

by osbug on Jun 29, 2007 5:11 PM PDT up reply actions

cash

we got cash from the As to help pay his salary, so its even better

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by Sam (sdsuaztec4) on Jun 29, 2007 5:27 PM PDT reply actions

opps

didn't notice the update....you idiot stimpy!

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by Sam (sdsuaztec4) on Jun 29, 2007 5:28 PM PDT up reply actions

old school

with the magic nose goblins

by bktabinga on Jun 29, 2007 10:09 PM PDT up reply actions

2008 OF

Assuming Bradley's gone after this year and Sledge will be traded sometime soon, that leaves the OF lacking for next year. Branyan, Cruz Jr, Giles?

by Gone Savage on Jun 29, 2007 5:52 PM PDT reply actions

towers

these last few moves aren't much by themselves, but together looks very good. towers has been saying all year that although he knew he would need a bat or two, he didnt want to break up his stellar bullpen. well we've now upgraded the bats at catcher, and have added a solid major league hitter to our outfield. and what have we given up? a backup catcher and two low-level prospects. i LOVE this.

i think bradley, however tempermental, is an improvement over sledge/cruz. i am excited mostly because towers has added a few legitimate players. and everyone knows teams that go far in the playoffs typically have a guy or two they got midseason that shows up then (Jimmy Leyritz anybody?).

by John Gennaro on Jun 30, 2007 4:39 AM PDT reply actions